Players recognised at annual awards event

Some of the Southwick Players award winners with president Nigel Bubloz, far right

Published:09:00Friday 13 March 2015

Nominations recognition from directors and committee for efforts throughout the year

Awards for actors and backstage crew

SPOSCARS presented at the Barn Theatre, Southwick

SOUTHWICK Players recognised achievements in the company over the last year at the annual awards evening.

The SPOSCARS, hosted by H Reeves, were presented at the Barn Theatre, in Southwick, on Saturday.

Players’ president Nigel Bubloz said: “It is our chance to look back and remember the shows from last year, and congratulate the people involved.

“Nominations for awards are recognition from the directors and committee for efforts throughout the year.”

Best overall production was Oh! What a Lovely War, which was performed last March to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War.

Mr Reeves described it as ‘the right show, at the right time, in the right place’.

It was a fabulous year for all four shows and next season looks even better

Tony Bright, winner of best actor

Director Richard Lindfield, who was presented with the award for best director, said: “The star of the show, for designing and creating the fantastic set, was Len Shipton.”

Choreographer Katy Markey added: “It was a really amazing show to be involved with in the year that it was and it was very special.

“The names of the people from Southwick who died in the First World War rolling across the screen at the back I think will stay with me forever.”

The best actor and actress awards went to Tony Bright and Martha Perrin for Far From the Madding Crowd, which had won best overall production and a clutch of other trophies at the BHAC Drama Awards 2014.

Mr Bright said: “It was a fabulous year for all four shows and next season looks even better.”

Director Claire Lewis accepted the award on behalf of Miss Perrin, saying: “I know she will be really shocked and surprised, and very grateful.”

The most promising youth member award was shared between Louise Woollard and Amy Whittington.

Mr Bubloz said: “The award usually goes to only one person, but the committee just could not pick between these two young ladies.”

The Players’ player, an award for people who work behind the scenes, went to Martin Oakley, for his excellent sound and lighting.

A new base for this award was donated by Alan Cardew, in memory of his partner, Mike Padley, who was due to direct Dick Whittington but died unexpected last March.

Best supporting or cameo role went to Southwick teenager Georgia Harrison for her excellent performance as Tommy the cat in Dick Whittington.

Ian Churchill was given a special mention for standing in at the last minute in Oh! What a Lovely War, as well as co-directing Just For Laughs Again and being deputy stage manager on the other two shows.